Description

CPU

At this budget, we're running an Intel i5-7500. Any modern i5 will perform admirably for nearly all gaming needs. The i5-7500 includes a stock cooler, so 3rd-party cooler isn't necessary. Since we aren't overclocking our CPU, the stock cooler will be sufficient in keeping temperatures acceptable.

Note: If you'd prefer to consider a similar build, but instead using an AMD Ryzen processor, be sure to check out our Great AMD Gaming Build Guide.

Motherboard

We're using a parametric filter to constantly select the best-priced motherboard while meeting selected criteria. In this case, we are filtering for B250 chipsets and 4 DDR4 DIMM slots for future expansion. The compatibility engine will filter out anything not compatible with the build. The motherboards are also capable of using the CPU's integrated GPU, in case you need to RMA your GPU or are waiting for a sale or upgrade.

Memory

Memory needs are slowly but constantly increasing, and we want to stay ahead of the curve. To this end we're using a parametric filter to choose a 16GB kit of memory within Intel's recommended specifications at the best price. The filter will only select 2x8GB kits, allowing us to leave room for extra DIMMs for future expansion.

Storage

We're use parametric filters to incorporate an SSD with at least 500GB of space. Everyone's storage needs differs, so feel free to add or remove capacity to your heart's desire.

GPU

For our GPU, the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 is one of the best price for performance cards on the market and an absolute powerhouse. The GTX 1070 will provide a consistent 60fps on many demanding games like Battlefield 1) at Ultra at 1080p, and even 1440p for some games like Shadow of War. For those interested in VR, the GTX 1070 will have no problem playing any and and all applications currently on the market.

To keep the noise and temperatures down, we've updated the filter to include a minimum length to avoid "mini" versions of the card, which prioritize fitting into small builds, such as an ITX case. You can choose to use this filter instead, if you want to include the smaller cards for any reason. Note that smaller cards will be louder or hotter - or both.

Case

Our build will be housed in the Antec P8 ATX mid tower case. This case features a tempered glass window and 2x front panel USB 3.0 ports. It can fit full length video cards and features a PSU shroud to keep your build looking cleaner. The P8 also contains quite a bit of cable management features, such as cutouts, bumps and tie-offs.

PSU

For our power supply, we're using a parametric selection of well-reviewed semi or fully modular units, all of which are 80+ Gold certified or above and can provide plenty of power for this build.

I'm looking at this for my first real PC build and I honestly have no clue what I'm doing. As I'm currently using a laptop, I'd need to get a monitor and a keyboard, does anybody have any suggestions? I'd like to be able to use Nvidia G-Sync as well. Also, does this build allow for future upgrades? I would like to be able to make this build better instead of completely getting a new one in the future.

Get a newer 8th gen system, I am currently waiting for the other motherboard chip sets to come out as the only one that is out is the z370, which is really meant for high end systems. Monitors that use g-sync are usually really expensive, you can usually find them for around $400. I wouldn't suggest this because this chip set (b250) is not supported after 7th generation.

You should look into a 144hz monitor, preferably BenQ from experience. Also a Logitech G keyboard should suit any gamer in my opinion, they have great price ranges. And when building a gaming PC, to my understanding, it should always be easily customizable for you to upgrade in the future so you don't have to build PC after PC. Have fun.

I see your spending quite a bit of money, why not get a motherboard that can support 8th gen intel? One you currently picked can only use 6th and 7th gen. Also, with DDR4 Ram and graphic card prices inflated as hell at the moment, it may make sense to get a lower cost graphic card and wait out the price hike that's going on in 2018. Then sell it and upgrade to a new one later.